Minnesota Field Sobriety Testing Attorneys & Lawyers

When a driver is pulled over due to suspected drunk driving or pulled over at a checkpoint and drinking is suspected, a field sobriety test may be conducted. There are certain tasks that must be performed by the driver and these tests must be passed in order for the driver to move on. If the tests are failed, then the individual will be arrested for drunk driving.

Types Of Field Sobriety Tests

There are standard Minnesota field sobriety tests that are administered. Those tests include:

• The one-leg stand – This is where the driver is asked to stand on one leg. If the driver can successfully stand on one leg, then the test is passed. It may be necessary to alternate legs.

• Walk and turn – This is where the driver is asked to walk a straight line. If there is a waiver in the person’s walk, if they are all over the place, or there is any other sign of impairment, then the test is failed.

• Horizontal gaze nystagmus test – If there is a disturbance in the inner ear, which can be caused by excessive alcohol consumption, the eye will move jerkishly. It can also be defined as a “bouncing” of the eye. However, the consumption of other substances such as antidepressants, phencyclidine, or inhalants can also cause the brain to lose control of the eye muscles. The more impaired an individual, the more their eye will jerk or bounce. Scientific research has shown that the Horizontal gaze nystagmus test is quite reliable in identifying impaired individuals.

After field-testing and arrest, Breath, blood, or urine tests may also be conducted to determine the impairment of an individual. These are voluntary tests, but there is a penalty that can is administered if a person fails to volunteer for the test, and it also constitutes a gross misdemeanor, separate crime, to refuse testing. Revocation of driving privileges also will be imposed, so it probably best to go ahead and take the test, after arrest, because charges will result anyway, and get worse when you refuse testing. But call a lawyer first

Non-Standard Field Sobriety Tests

There are non-standard tests that may be administered as well to confirm that an individual is under the influence. Here are the tests that you may see:

• Stand with your feet together and tilt your head back, which can also be done with the arms out

• Count the number of fingers raised by the officer

• Recite all or part of the alphabet

• Count backwards

• Finger to nose with eyes closed

• The hand pat test, which is done by extending one hand out with the palm up and the other with the palm down, alternating the patting of each palm with eyes closed

DWI Attorney Minneapolis

If you or someone you know has been arrested with a DWI charge, it is important to speak to a skilled DWI defense lawyer who can handle your situation with the utmost experience and dedication. Our DWI attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case and handle all court appearances to guide you through the criminal justice system. Protect your rights. If you have questions regarding your DWI charges contact our attorneys for a free consultation at (952) 797-7464.

Our Minnesota DWI defense lawyers represent clients throughout Hennepin County, Ramsey County, Anoka County, Scott County, Washington County, Sherburne County, and beyond. We represent clients throughout the Twin Cities including Minneapolis, St Paul, Anoka, Andover, Blaine, Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center, Burnsville, Bloomington, Coon Rapids, Champlin, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Edina, Maplegrove, Maplewood, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Richfield, Roseville, White Bear Lake and Woodbury.

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